DIY: Fix PRNDS, shifter issue, implausable switch p189
 

So after a long request and a fix myself I decided to do this write up. This procedure is for an Automatic transmission, A4 B6 2002-2005.5 Quattro The procedure varies for other cars as well so please ask before you attempt to screw it up.

Any and all questions are welcome as always.

Warning: attempt this on your own and at your own risk, I am not held responsible for any damage done to your vehicle as this is strictly for information only.


1) Take off the cover which is along the perimeter of the shifter by pushing/pulling upwards toward the dashboard (shown in picture below).

Attachment 15188

2) Insert the key and turn to the pre ignition stage then shift into D with your foot on the brake (Make sure your foot is on the brake and you are parked on a flat surface for this procedure)

3) Taking off the shifter

A) Twist down the bottom circular cover (#1 in photo)
B) By pulling on the shift button outwards, inserting a zip-tie to hold the button in place to release the lock mechanism. (#2 in photo)
C) Now pull...I mean pull hard...don’t be a wuss and pull like a Mother F...er because this thing is a pain.
***D) (The screw up step) Did the zip tie come off and now your button is stuck inside? Do not pry it open with a screw. Put your precious lips on it and blow, blow hard into the bottom hole of the shifter. If this does not work take an air compressor and seal the hole and blow in it. (Bottom portion of the shifter the one that just came of from the shifter) Oh and watch your face incase it flies off :D

Attachment 15189

4) Now pull the side tabs off as show in these photos
Attachment 15190

These are the other side tabs that are on the front and back you might need a pair of pliers
Attachment 15191

5) For the final step the magnet itself usually comes out of the blind/slider (black plastic) and needs to be placed back in place. We all know that magnets have a North and South poles and the shifter only works on one of those poles so you will need to do trail and error and flip the magnet.

6) To pull out the slider and replace it completely it will cost $121 for that piece and you basically just take the two plastic white pieces apart by disengaging the two clips on either end. show in this photo.

Attachment 15192

7) If all this does not work your circuit board is probably burnt out and needs to be replaced for $289 roughly.

Hope this helps everyone solve this little glitch that appears every once in a while on our vehicles.

Cheers,

1Move

Re: DIY: Fix PRNDS, shifter issue, implausable switch p189
 

today morning I had the same problem i.e.PRNDS flashing, I switched off the car, start again after few minutes and its ok since then. My car is 2004/2.4 L multitronic. should I try anything or leave it until I face the same problem again?
Thanks Tariq.

Re: DIY: Fix PRNDS, shifter issue, implausable switch p189
 

Check your PM

Re: DIY: Fix PRNDS, shifter issue, implausable switch p189
 

will this work to fix the manual shifter side?

Re: DIY: Fix PRNDS, shifter issue, implausable switch p189
 

Hi, I was trying to follow the step shows in here, but I got when I open it, I can't find the magnets you talking about.
here is the images for my process.

http://desmond.imageshack.us/Himg716...jpg&res=medium

http://desmond.imageshack.us/Himg40/...jpg&res=medium

http://desmond.imageshack.us/Himg851...jpg&res=medium

by the way, how to remove the circuit board on the top, I trying to change to piece black plastic under the circuit board.
thank you.
ken

Re: DIY: Fix PRNDS, shifter issue, implausable switch p189
 

Take off the white plastic cover with the tabs shown in step four.

Re: DIY: Fix PRNDS, shifter issue, implausable switch p189
 

I have the same problem on my 2002 A4. My car would only shift if I used the manual shifter, but I had to get the revs up, shift to neutral then shift up manually, etc.
I opened the gear shift housing and almost dislocated my shoulder trying to get gear knob off and gave up. I did manage the take the housing off and removed the circuit board that is shown in the picture. The car shifts in fine in automatic without the circuit board. The only problem is that all the PRNDS lights are lit. I want to replace the circuit board but am not sure what to ask for. Lots of numbers on the circuit board but I'm not sure which one is the part number. Can anyone advise?

Re: DIY: Fix PRNDS, shifter issue, implausable switch p189
 

what is the part number for the circuit board and where can I get one?